Things to Do in Southeast Asia in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Southeast Asia
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Shoulder season pricing - accommodation costs 30-40% less than peak months, with many hotels offering May promotions before high season
- Lush green landscapes after rainy season - waterfalls at full power, rice terraces at their most photogenic, and jungle vegetation at its thickest
- Fewer crowds at major temples and attractions - Angkor Wat, Grand Palace, and popular viewpoints are significantly less busy than December-March
- Perfect mango season across the region - vendors sell peak-ripeness Nam Dok Mai and Mahachanok varieties for ฿30-50/kg, plus fresh mango sticky rice everywhere
Considerations
- High humidity (75%) makes outdoor activities exhausting - you'll sweat through clothes within 30 minutes of walking in direct sun
- Daily thunderstorms disrupt plans - expect 60-90 minute downpours most afternoons between 2-5pm, with flooding in low-lying areas
- Air quality issues in northern Thailand and Vietnam - burning season creates haze with AQI often exceeding 150 in Chiang Mai and Hanoi
Best Activities in May
Similan Islands Diving and Snorkeling
May is the final month before monsoon closure (parks close June-October), offering crystal clear 30m (98ft) visibility and calm seas. Water temperature hits perfect 28°C (82°F). Marine life is most active before seasonal migrations. This is your last chance until November.
Chiang Mai Temple and Mountain Cycling
Early morning rides (6-9am) avoid both heat and afternoon storms. Mountain temples like Wat Phra That Doi Suthep have fewer crowds and morning mist creates dramatic photos. Post-rain air is cleaner than March-April burning season. Temperature is perfect at dawn: 22°C (72°F).
Mekong Delta Floating Market Tours
May brings peak fruit season - dragon fruit, rambutan, and mangoes are harvested fresh daily. Early morning tours (5-9am) avoid afternoon storms and experience markets at their most active. Canal water levels are optimal after rainy season. Temperature is bearable before 10am.
Bangkok Rooftop Bar Hopping
Dramatic evening thunderstorms create spectacular lightning shows over the city. May storms usually clear by 7-8pm, leaving cooler temperatures (26°C/79°F) perfect for outdoor bars. Tourist crowds are lighter than peak season. Fresh evening air after rain is refreshing.
Sapa Rice Terrace Photography Tours
May is transplanting season - terraces are flooded and reflect morning light perfectly. Fewer tourists mean unobstructed shots at sunrise viewpoints. Morning temperatures are comfortable at 18°C (64°F) before climbing to 28°C (82°F). Post-rain visibility extends to distant mountains.
Palawan Underground River and Island Tours
May offers calm seas before typhoon season and perfect cave temperatures of 24°C (75°F) to escape outside heat. Tourist numbers are manageable compared to peak season. Marine life is active in warming waters. Clear skies between storms provide excellent island photography.
May Events & Festivals
Vesak Day (Buddha's Birthday)
Major Buddhist holiday celebrated across Southeast Asia with temple ceremonies, candlelit processions, and free vegetarian food offerings. Temples stay open all night with special chanting and meditation sessions. Experience authentic local devotion away from tourist crowds.
Royal Ploughing Ceremony (Thailand)
Ancient royal ceremony at Sanam Luang in Bangkok marking rice planting season. Sacred white bulls predict the year's harvest by choosing from seven types of food. Attracts mainly locals, offering authentic cultural experience with ceremonial costumes and traditional music.